The vision began with no idea of ending. We designed this home to be an oasis and creative laboratory, a place to recharge. The time we have spent here has been fruitful and leaving is very much bittersweet; we are eager and energized for what awaits us in the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania area, and in saying farewell to this amazing house that we designed and built, there is a gratitude for this space, the gatherings and the time we spent together working and living and growing. In packing our art pieces we came across this gem, a signed Interview Mag cover from Andy Warhol. I had a great time working freelance for the publication in its day, and it is a wonderful reminder of how each successive stage in life enriches you, helps you develop, and is a mix of triumphs and small grievings as you grow and move onward. In a lot of ways, we give up something that is very good to take up what is next. So, here we go! Packing up our life to put down new roots in Pennsylvania, wrapping up our equipment, our household, our expectations, and our memories.

Mostly what is left is a benediction – an excited anticipation for the next owners to discover how echoes of laughter nestle here, nurtured creative endeavors flourish within these walls, and peace is rooted firmly here on this piece of land near Lawrence, Kansas.

We’re exploring the idea of luxury as we work on photographing these gorgeous Wendell August early American Forge pieces which showcase some amazing Swarovski crystals. Maybe it is the saturated gem tones, gleaming metalwork, or perhaps the wink of sparkle that catches your eye. You know when you see something timelessly luxurious -- it’s anything but ordinary.

Originating from the Latin luxus, the 1550’s French use of “luxe” brought the term forward by continuing to describe fashion, décor, or lifestyle that was sumptuous, extravagant, elevated. Opulence was the social calling card of outward appearance. Over time luxe has evolved to describe excessive quality, something that not only LOOKS expensive but has a richness of nature. The outward show AND the core of quality. Luxe can be extravagant yet concentrated. It can be decadent but delicate. Each expression is unique. It’s next-level glamour: nestled in the beautifully detailed metalwork is the signature sparkle of precision-cut Swarovski crystals. The raw material proportions of Swarovski crystals remains a company secret, stretching back to 1892! Partnered together, the work of Wendell August forge and Swarovski crystal produce the embodiment of luxe.

Our Sophia Pilar graduated June 16, 2018 top of her class and Maga Cum Laude in Visual Communication. It was a cool afternoon out on UCLA's garden area with plenty of proud families, and moms and dads in attendance.

She worked hard, never took no for answer, and has so much talent. We are all so proud of her accomplishments. She is our rising star!

She now starts the next chapter of life!

Love D

Swiftly as an arrow in flight, time passes. In the wake of transitory moments, we are left with words and impressions to build a picture. Layers of bygone eras become the texture that future generations will reach for as they seek to understand the how’s and why’s, and hear the voices Time has stilled. This piece invites examination, engages the eye to search, while representing that ineffable element of timelessness within a finite frame. A wet-plate collodion mixed-media piece, it is a unique fusion of historical photography techniques and digital advancements. Sink into the depth created by the newsprint and tissue patterns. Let your eyes wander among the lines and shapes, and enjoy the musings and meanings you find within your journey.

#hats #milliner Against a backdrop of words, faces, and patterns, the strong tall central figure in this piece embodies balance. The tower of hats stacked upon the head are giving both grounding and height. Within that balance, there is an expression of hope and an appreciation for the roles we inhabit and experiences we carry. We are the authors of our own stories. The encompassing newsprint elements are an ever-present many-layered atmosphere for the eyes to explore. The structure created by the background texture mirrors and complements the angles and attitude of the hat stack in intriguing ways. This piece is wet-plate collodion mixed-media, and an experience in itself to view in person! Enjoy!

#butterflies #entomologist Explore this fascinating new project! It combines some of my original Occupationalists work, achieved with wet-plate collodion photography and mixed-media application. The result is so textural that it makes you want to reach out and touch it. The background is composed of newsprint, construction patterns, and tissue pieces, effectively surrounding the solid central figure clad in black. As if the subject stands outside of time, in a whirlwind of words and shapes, this piece thoughtfully invites the viewer to discover the many moving pieces creating a diverse and communitive experience. It evokes a feeling of infinite opportunity and uncertain directionality. Take in the lines and shapes as the eye is drawn all across the canvas, much like the fluttering butterflies which punctuate the space. This piece is a journey. Enjoy!

In the midst of the uncertainty in life, there are people whose influence acts as an anchor. A person who offers steadfast support and solidarity is a treasure. This piece, “Anchor,” was inspired by and created for my wife Sher, who brings balance and buoyancy to my life. The roughened wood sets up a great contrast in texture to the smooth strong lines of the anchor and the organic softness of the scattered wild roses. “Anchor” is a collodion wet-plate piece acknowledging the powerful gift of connection. Enjoy!

When soulful strains wash over you, it’s difficult not to be transported. That indefinable, powerful element is the focus of this new collodion wet-plate piece. Beautiful, haunting, ethereal, evocative; in many ways, your memories are a melody. They rise and fall, weaving in and out of the moments that make up your song, your life. This piece, "Simply Soulful," is an image depicting that human experience. Art allows us to explore our world, our lives, our selves. Find your harmony and enjoy!